Get ready; 'Jukebox' returns to Marriotts Ridge High [Marriottsville/Sykesville/Woodstock]

One of Marriotts Ridge High's most-anticipated events is Jukebox, the school's signature fall music revue. Each year, the common thread is a talking Jukebox that tutors students about different musical eras and genres, but these songs change annually, as does the student-created storyline. For instance, last year's plot seemed reminiscent of John Hughes' 1985 coming-of-age film, "The Breakfast Club."

"Jukebox 9 —The Prelude" promises the same energy, joy and talent that have popularized the event. A 16-piece live student band will perform 14 toe-tapping numbers ranging from jazz to rap, while a cast of more than 100 students sing, dance, act and provide stage support.

Do you have a passion for plants that you enjoy sharing with others? The Howard County Master Gardeners invite you to become a volunteer and help educate residents about healthier, safer, and more environmentally-friendly approaches to horticulture.

Registration has begun for the 2014Master Gardener Training, which will kick off with an orientation on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 10 a.m. to noon. The class will then meet every Monday and Wednesday, Jan. 27 to March 31, 9 a.m. to noon, at the University of Maryland Extension's Howard County office, 3300 North Ridge Road, Suite 240, in Ellicott City.

Training costs $195 and covers plant, insect, and disease problems, as well as a variety of topics related to sustainable gardening practices. The program welcomes both new and experienced gardeners and especially seeks individuals with writing, graphics or computer experience.

Registration ends Friday, Oct. 25, and class size is limited. Call 410-313-2707 to request a registration packet, or go to extension.umd.edu/mg/locations/howard-county-master-gardeners to learn more about the Howard County Master Gardeners.

Two weeks ago, I wrote about Chapelgate Presbyterian Church's Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 12. Another event has been added to the festivities — a motorcycle Ride for Hope. Check-in begins at Chapelgate, 2600 Marriottsville Road, in Marriottsville, at 10 a.m., with kickstands up at 10:30. The group will return to the church at noon.

The ride costs $10, and proceeds will benefit Sarah's Hope at Hannah Moore, an emergency shelter for women and children in Baltimore County. Go to http://www.vincentbaltimore.org/programs_sarahs_hope_hannah%20more_st_vincent_baltimore.html to learn more about this mission.

To register and pay online, go to http://www.chapelgate.org/rideforhope. Email Lauren Bauman at lbauman@chapelgate.org with any questions, or call 410-442-5800, ext. 113. Go to http://www.chapelgate.org/fallfestival to see more details about the fall festival.